Maryville
senior Garrett Dumke has committed&nbsp;to compete in Cross
Country and Track and Field at Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau.

Dumke is a
four-time Midland Empire Conference champion and a 2020 class 3 all-state performer for the
Spoofhounds. 

Garrett plans to study athletic training at SEMO.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMaryville
senior Garrett Dumke has committed&nbsp;to compete in Cross
Country and Track and Field at Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau.Dumke is a
four-time Midland Empire Conference champion and a 2020 class 3 all-state performer for the
Spoofhounds. Garrett plans to study athletic training at SEMO.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609955981917.jpeg" alt="Pictured L/R Front- Sharlet Dumke, Garrett Dumke, Howard Dumke, Ava Dumke L/R Back- Head XC, Track &amp; Field Coach Rodney Bade, Asst. Cross Country Coach Dan Ferguson. " />
 <figcaption>Pictured L/R Front- Sharlet Dumke, Garrett Dumke, Howard Dumke, Ava Dumke L/R Back- Head XC, Track &amp; Field Coach Rodney Bade, Asst. Cross Country Coach Dan Ferguson. </figcaption>
 </figure>

Maryville's Garrett Dumke commits to run track, cross country at SEMO

&nbsp;The Missouri Western women's basketball game against Emporia State scheduled for Thursday has been postponed due to COVID-19 protocols within the Hornet program.

The game will now be played on Feb. 2 at 6 p.m.&nbsp; Griffon season ticket holders are asked to hold on to their ticket stubs for the new date.

The men's game against Emporia State on Thursday will take place with a new tip time of 6 p.m. inside the MWSU Fieldhouse.&nbsp;

The Missouri Western women (2-5) have been idle for 18 days, last playing at Missouri Southern on Dec. 19.

Assistant coach Emily Whacker said the team had a closed scrimmage last week which has helped the players stay loose during that time.

"That allowed us to get our feet back under us and back into a rhythm a little bit," Whacker said. "That was a good thing, and we'll definitely be ready to go." The Missouri Western women will be back in action Saturday along with the men, as they host Washburn. That regularly scheduled doubleheader will begin at 5:30 p.m. in St. Joseph.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph Post&nbsp;The Missouri Western women's basketball game against Emporia State scheduled for Thursday has been postponed due to COVID-19 protocols within the Hornet program.The game will now be played on Feb. 2 at 6 p.m.&nbsp; Griffon season ticket holders are asked to hold on to their ticket stubs for the new date.The men's game against Emporia State on Thursday will take place with a new tip time of 6 p.m. inside the MWSU Fieldhouse.&nbsp;The Missouri Western women (2-5) have been idle for 18 days, last playing at Missouri Southern on Dec. 19.Assistant coach Emily Whacker said the team had a closed scrimmage last week which has helped the players stay loose during that time."That allowed us to get our feet back under us and back into a rhythm a little bit," Whacker said. "That was a good thing, and we'll definitely be ready to go." The Missouri Western women will be back in action Saturday along with the men, as they host Washburn. That regularly scheduled doubleheader will begin at 5:30 p.m. in St. Joseph.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609954771747.jpeg" alt="Courtesy GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Missouri Western women's game against Emporia State postponed

The Northwest Missouri State University women's
basketball team has rescheduled its two postponed games from this week due to
COVID-19 protocols. 
Northwest host Emporia State on Tuesday,
Jan. 19 at 5:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena. They'll also host Washburn on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 5:30 p.m.

The Bearcat women's next scheduled game is at Fort Hays State on Thursday, Jan. 14 at 5:30 p.m.

BearcatSports.comThe Northwest Missouri State University women's
basketball team has rescheduled its two postponed games from this week due to
COVID-19 protocols. 
Northwest host Emporia State on Tuesday,
Jan. 19 at 5:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena. They'll also host Washburn on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 5:30 p.m.The Bearcat women's next scheduled game is at Fort Hays State on Thursday, Jan. 14 at 5:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609695619479.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Northwest Missouri State reschedules postponed women's basketball games

Varsity scoreboard for the KFEQ Radio and St. Joseph Post coverage area for January 5, 2021.

Maryville 63 Savannah 26 - Serena Sundell 29 pts.

North Nodaway 58 West Nodaway 40 - Lauren Herndon 17 pts.

Central 60 Lafayette 56. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/910882f0-653d-49e4-b196-7e13daa57a01">Full coverage here</a>.

Mound City 84 Rock Port 22 -&nbsp;Tony Osburn&nbsp; scored 30 pts. to become Mound City's career leading scorer.

Stanberry 43 Worth County 32 - Collin Sager breaks Stanberry school record with 124th made three.

Excelsior Springs @ Cameron was postponed.

Gallatin boys defeated St. Pius 39-36 and Stanberry 42-24. In girls' wrestling, Lawson defeated Gallatin 56-21.

Mid-Buchanan boys beat Palmyra 58-21 and Marceline 51-21. The Mid-Buchanan girls beat Palmyra 36-6, but fell to Marceline 30-24.

Submit scores and results to Tommy.Rezac@EagleRadio.net. Or tweet them to @TommyKFEQ or @StJosephPost.

Varsity scoreboard for the KFEQ Radio and St. Joseph Post coverage area for January 5, 2021.&nbsp;Girls basketball:Maryville 63 Savannah 26 - Serena Sundell 29 pts.#9 Bishop LeBlond 58 #8 Mid-Buchanan 38North Nodaway 58 West Nodaway 40 - Lauren Herndon 17 pts.Pattonsburg 59 St. Joseph Christian 48Rock Port 59 Mound City 34North Andrew @ Albany postponed.South Holt 61 Nodaway-Holt 57 OTTrenton 26 Gallatin 15Stanberry 52 Worth County 16Platte Valley 63 DeKalb 35Maysville 53 Polo 38Boys' basketball:Central 60 Lafayette 56. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/910882f0-653d-49e4-b196-7e13daa57a01">Full coverage here</a>.#4 Mid Buchanan 40 #7 Bishop LeBlond 31Pattonsburg 66 St. Joseph Christian 65Platte County 74 Ruskin 71South Holt 59 Nodaway-Holt 34Mound City 84 Rock Port 22 -&nbsp;Tony Osburn&nbsp; scored 30 pts. to become Mound City's career leading scorer.Stanberry 43 Worth County 32 - Collin Sager breaks Stanberry school record with 124th made three.Maysville 58 Polo 49Excelsior Springs @ Cameron was postponed.Wrestling results:Gallatin boys defeated St. Pius 39-36 and Stanberry 42-24. In girls' wrestling, Lawson defeated Gallatin 56-21.Mid-Buchanan boys beat Palmyra 58-21 and Marceline 51-21. The Mid-Buchanan girls beat Palmyra 36-6, but fell to Marceline 30-24.Submit scores and results to Tommy.Rezac@EagleRadio.net. Or tweet them to @TommyKFEQ or @StJosephPost.

Area scoreboard - January 5, 2021

St. Joseph Central had fallen behind in games before, and yet, have won nine of their first 11 games.

So, being down by 11 at the end of the first quarter against Lafayette at home Tuesday was no big deal.

The Indians (9-2) drained eight three-pointers in the second half and had 12 total trifectas in a 60-56 win over the Lafayette Irish in a boys' basketball meeting at the Colesium.

After trailing 21-10 at the end of the first, head coach Jacob Kimble said his guys relaxed and settled in.

"One thing that's true about our team is that these guys never quit," Kimble said. "We had fallen behind before, and we use the phrase 'stay the course' all the time. We stayed the course tonight, started to chip away at it and were able to stay in the game because of that."

By the second quarter, the Indians had started to chip away. Three-pointers by junior Trey Main and senior Will Small helped shrink the Irish's lead to five, 29-24, by intermission.

Main really found his stroke in the fourth quarter, where he scored 12 of his game-high 22 points. He made two three-pointers in that frame, and also went 3-for-3 at the free throw line after getting fouled from behind the arc.

"We kind of got off to a slow start," Main said. "But, just moving the ball and working together as a team, we really picked it up."

Small hit five threes and finished with 18 points. Senior Jayce Taylor also had a pair of clutch threes in the third quarter which helped sway momentum in the Indians' direction.

"We have the ability to shoot the ball well," coach Kimble said. "We had several step up tonight and hit huge shots. We create that by being unselfish. Every guy on this roster is unselfish and they're willing to make the extra pass."

Senior Zach Langley led four Irish players in double figures with 13 points - nine of that coming in the first half. Senior Try'Shon Page had 12, sophomore Camden Barrett scored 11 and fellow senior Derrick May finished with 10.

Lafayette opened the game on a 10-4 run and led by as many as 13 in the second quarter, but the second half belonged to Central, as the Indians outscored the Irish 36-27 over the final 16 minutes, including a 16-9 fourth quarter.

Kimble said Central made some adjustments on defense, and continued to stay the course.

"We were able to defend pretty effectively," Kimble said. "I'm just really proud of the way they stepped up and really started to defend and defend our home court."

Central is next in action Saturday when they host Roncalli Catholic (Omaha). Lafayette is home to Maryville on Thursday.

Central - 60 (10, 14, 20, 16) Lafayette - 56 (21, 8, 18, 9)

Central scoring: Trey Main - 22, Will Small - 18, Jayce Taylor - 6, La'var Felder - 5, Jay Jura - 5, Wills Johnston - 2, Brett Main - 2

Lafayette scoring:&nbsp;Zach Langley - 13 , Senior Try'Shon Page - 12, Camden Barrett - 11, Derrick May - 10, Drake Davison - 4, Mikey Thomas - 3, Samuel Ryan - 2, Tyrease Bicalho-Dutton - 1

More scores from Tuesday <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/49cca212-6bdb-473b-9420-71f231c49a87">here</a>.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Central had fallen behind in games before, and yet, have won nine of their first 11 games.So, being down by 11 at the end of the first quarter against Lafayette at home Tuesday was no big deal.The Indians (9-2) drained eight three-pointers in the second half and had 12 total trifectas in a 60-56 win over the Lafayette Irish in a boys' basketball meeting at the Colesium.After trailing 21-10 at the end of the first, head coach Jacob Kimble said his guys relaxed and settled in."One thing that's true about our team is that these guys never quit," Kimble said. "We had fallen behind before, and we use the phrase 'stay the course' all the time. We stayed the course tonight, started to chip away at it and were able to stay in the game because of that."By the second quarter, the Indians had started to chip away. Three-pointers by junior Trey Main and senior Will Small helped shrink the Irish's lead to five, 29-24, by intermission.Main really found his stroke in the fourth quarter, where he scored 12 of his game-high 22 points. He made two three-pointers in that frame, and also went 3-for-3 at the free throw line after getting fouled from behind the arc."We kind of got off to a slow start," Main said. "But, just moving the ball and working together as a team, we really picked it up."Small hit five threes and finished with 18 points. Senior Jayce Taylor also had a pair of clutch threes in the third quarter which helped sway momentum in the Indians' direction."We have the ability to shoot the ball well," coach Kimble said. "We had several step up tonight and hit huge shots. We create that by being unselfish. Every guy on this roster is unselfish and they're willing to make the extra pass."Senior Zach Langley led four Irish players in double figures with 13 points - nine of that coming in the first half. Senior Try'Shon Page had 12, sophomore Camden Barrett scored 11 and fellow senior Derrick May finished with 10.Lafayette opened the game on a 10-4 run and led by as many as 13 in the second quarter, but the second half belonged to Central, as the Indians outscored the Irish 36-27 over the final 16 minutes, including a 16-9 fourth quarter.Kimble said Central made some adjustments on defense, and continued to stay the course."We were able to defend pretty effectively," Kimble said. "I'm just really proud of the way they stepped up and really started to defend and defend our home court."Central is next in action Saturday when they host Roncalli Catholic (Omaha). Lafayette is home to Maryville on Thursday.Central - 60 (10, 14, 20, 16) Lafayette - 56 (21, 8, 18, 9)Central scoring: Trey Main - 22, Will Small - 18, Jayce Taylor - 6, La'var Felder - 5, Jay Jura - 5, Wills Johnston - 2, Brett Main - 2Lafayette scoring:&nbsp;Zach Langley - 13 , Senior Try'Shon Page - 12, Camden Barrett - 11, Derrick May - 10, Drake Davison - 4, Mikey Thomas - 3, Samuel Ryan - 2, Tyrease Bicalho-Dutton - 1More scores from Tuesday <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/49cca212-6bdb-473b-9420-71f231c49a87">here</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609904222688.jpeg" alt="Trey Main dribbles in the second half of Tuesday's 60-56 win over Lafayette. Main finished with a game-high 22 points. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Trey Main dribbles in the second half of Tuesday's 60-56 win over Lafayette. Main finished with a game-high 22 points. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Central boys drain 12 threes, come back to beat Lafayette

The
Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team will not compete
this week against
Washburn and Emporia State due to COVID-19 protocols
within the Bearcat program. 
&nbsp; 
As a result, the Bearcat men's basketball start times have been changed. Thursday's
matchup against&nbsp; No. 5 Washburn will now tip at 6 p.m. in Bearcat Arena. Saturday's
game against Emporia State will begin at 2 p.m. 
&nbsp; 
No makeup dates or times have been determined for the postponed women's games.

Making up games could be difficult. There are seven weeks left in the regular season, and the Bearcats already have two games per week scheduled in that time.

BearcatSports.comThe
Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team will not compete
this week against
Washburn and Emporia State due to COVID-19 protocols
within the Bearcat program. 
&nbsp; 
As a result, the Bearcat men's basketball start times have been changed. Thursday's
matchup against&nbsp; No. 5 Washburn will now tip at 6 p.m. in Bearcat Arena. Saturday's
game against Emporia State will begin at 2 p.m. 
&nbsp; 
No makeup dates or times have been determined for the postponed women's games.Making up games could be difficult. There are seven weeks left in the regular season, and the Bearcats already have two games per week scheduled in that time.

Northwest Missouri State WBB games postponed this week, men's times changed

Missouri Western is one of 28 schools nationwide
to be named a finalist for the 2021 Division II Award of Excellence - an
accolade recognizing initiatives in the past year that exemplify the Division
II philosophy, community engagement and student-athlete leadership. 
The honor stems from the 2019 "Griffs Giving Gifts" initiative - an
annual tradition spearheaded by the Missouri Western Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee.

The program partners with the St. Joseph AFL-CIO to adopt needy
families for the holidays. In 2019, student-athletes raised and donated a
record $2,000 dollars, and adopting more than 50 individuals around the St.
Joseph area. 
The national winner will be announced at the virtual 2021 NCAA Convention on January
15.

GoGriffons.comMissouri Western is one of 28 schools nationwide
to be named a finalist for the 2021 Division II Award of Excellence - an
accolade recognizing initiatives in the past year that exemplify the Division
II philosophy, community engagement and student-athlete leadership. 
The honor stems from the 2019 "Griffs Giving Gifts" initiative - an
annual tradition spearheaded by the Missouri Western Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee.The program partners with the St. Joseph AFL-CIO to adopt needy
families for the holidays. In 2019, student-athletes raised and donated a
record $2,000 dollars, and adopting more than 50 individuals around the St.
Joseph area. 
The national winner will be announced at the virtual 2021 NCAA Convention on January
15. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609866333428.jpeg" alt="Via GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Via GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>

MWSU's "Griffs Giving Gifts" named finalist for NCAA Award of Excellence

The Northwest Missouri State University Athletic Department will be allowing a limited number of fans into Bearcat Arena for women's and men's basketball doubleheaders. "We used the two games we hosted in December as a trial run for some spacing and mitigation plans and feel very confident we can expand our capacity beyond the players' families," Athletic Director Andy Peterson said in a statement. "With the number of season-ticket holders who responded to our inquiry about attending games, we can safely accommodate them along with our parents. We'll have a little more than 400 people in there, which should provide a solid game day environment for our student-athletes and their competitors." Student-athlete family members and season-ticket holders from 2019-2020 who expressed interest will have access to purchase seats this week. There will be no general admission tickets available for purchase.&nbsp; Season-tickets holders attending most likely won't be seated in their traditional seats, and may not even be in the same section because of seating arrangements and social distancing. An email with further details on purchasing tickets, seating charts, and other information is pending.&nbsp; Face masks will be required, per Northwest Missouri State University and City of&nbsp;Maryville&nbsp;policies. Many hand sanitizer stations will be available and there'll be limited concessions offerings.&nbsp; The Bearcat basketball teams currently have nine home doubleheaders left on their schedule.&nbsp; Season tickets became available for purchase, beginning Jan. 4 at 5 p.m. on the <a href="http://bearcatsports.com/">Bearcat athletics website</a>.

BearcatSports.comThe Northwest Missouri State University Athletic Department will be allowing a limited number of fans into Bearcat Arena for women's and men's basketball doubleheaders. "We used the two games we hosted in December as a trial run for some spacing and mitigation plans and feel very confident we can expand our capacity beyond the players' families," Athletic Director Andy Peterson said in a statement. "With the number of season-ticket holders who responded to our inquiry about attending games, we can safely accommodate them along with our parents. We'll have a little more than 400 people in there, which should provide a solid game day environment for our student-athletes and their competitors." Student-athlete family members and season-ticket holders from 2019-2020 who expressed interest will have access to purchase seats this week. There will be no general admission tickets available for purchase.&nbsp; Season-tickets holders attending most likely won't be seated in their traditional seats, and may not even be in the same section because of seating arrangements and social distancing. An email with further details on purchasing tickets, seating charts, and other information is pending.&nbsp; Face masks will be required, per Northwest Missouri State University and City of&nbsp;Maryville&nbsp;policies. Many hand sanitizer stations will be available and there'll be limited concessions offerings.&nbsp; The Bearcat basketball teams currently have nine home doubleheaders left on their schedule.&nbsp; Season tickets became available for purchase, beginning Jan. 4 at 5 p.m. on the <a href="http://bearcatsports.com/">Bearcat athletics website</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609820463660.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Northwest Missouri State to allow limited attendance at basketball games

High school basketball scores from the KFEQ and St. Joseph Post coverage area.

&nbsp;The St. Joseph Central vs. North Kansas City girls’ Suburban Conference tournament game has been postponed until January 27.

High school basketball scores from the KFEQ and St. Joseph Post coverage area.Boys:Maryville 65 Lathrop 34Hogan Prep 54 Mid Buchanan 41East Atchison 57 West Nodaway 50North Platte vs. Maysville - CANCELEDGirls:Platte County 56 Ruskin 26Grandview 53 Kearney 30Mid Buchanan 63 Hogan Prep 12East Atchison 95 West Nodaway 26North Platte vs. Maysville - CANCELED&nbsp;The St. Joseph Central vs. North Kansas City girls’ Suburban Conference tournament game has been postponed until January 27.

Area high school scoreboard - January 4, 2021

One of the NFL's hottest head coaching candidates is already receiving a lot of interest.

Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is virtually interviewing with the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions Monday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The New York Jets have also reportedly requested to meet with Bieniemy.

The 51-year-old offensive coordinator has received widespread praise for his role in turning the Chiefs into an offensive powerhouse. Bieniemy has been Kansas City's offensive coordinator since 2018 after spending five seasons as the running backs coach.

The Chiefs finished first in points per game in 2018 (35.3), fifth in 2019 (28.2) and sixth this season (29.6).

Another team that could potentially reach out to Bieniemy is the L.A. Chargers, who fired Anthony Lynn on Monday morning.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostOne of the NFL's hottest head coaching candidates is already receiving a lot of interest.Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is virtually interviewing with the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions Monday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.The New York Jets have also reportedly requested to meet with Bieniemy.The 51-year-old offensive coordinator has received widespread praise for his role in turning the Chiefs into an offensive powerhouse. Bieniemy has been Kansas City's offensive coordinator since 2018 after spending five seasons as the running backs coach.The Chiefs finished first in points per game in 2018 (35.3), fifth in 2019 (28.2) and sixth this season (29.6).Another team that could potentially reach out to Bieniemy is the L.A. Chargers, who fired Anthony Lynn on Monday morning.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Chiefs&#39; OC coordinator Eric Bieniemy is doing virtual HC interviews today with the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons, per source.&mdash; Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1346121856726741000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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</div>

Chiefs' Eric Bieniemy receiving heavy NFL head coaching interest

The Kansas City Chiefs’ home and away opponents for the 2021 NFL season have been finalized.

The 2021 NFL schedule won’t officially be released until sometime in April, but now that the winner of the AFC South has been determined (Tennessee), the Chiefs’ opponents for next year are officially set. That includes the&nbsp;newly-introduced 17th regular-season opponent.

Broncos Chargers Raiders Steelers Browns Bills Cowboys Giants

Broncos Chargers Raiders Ravens Bengals Washington Eagles Titans

Dates, times and TV information will be released once schedules are officially out this spring.

The Kansas City Chiefs’ home and away opponents for the 2021 NFL season have been finalized.The 2021 NFL schedule won’t officially be released until sometime in April, but now that the winner of the AFC South has been determined (Tennessee), the Chiefs’ opponents for next year are officially set. That includes the&nbsp;newly-introduced 17th regular-season opponent.Chiefs'&nbsp;home opponents:Broncos Chargers Raiders Steelers Browns Bills Cowboys Giants Away opponents:Broncos Chargers Raiders Ravens Bengals Washington Eagles TitansDates, times and TV information will be released once schedules are officially out this spring.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604875588898.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Chiefs' 2021 home and away opponents finalized

KANSAS CITY, MO -Rookie quarterback Justin Herbert threw for 302 yards and accounted for four touchdowns against a team of mostly Kansas City backups, as the Los Angeles Chargers rolled to a 38-21 victory over the Chiefs on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium in the regular-season finale for both teams.

Kansas City (14-2) turned their attention to the postseason, and Los Angeles will now focus on the future of head coach Anthony Lynn.

The Chiefs already had wrapped up the No. 1 seed and the AFC’s lone first-round bye in the playoffs, so coach Andy Reid chose to take rest over reps by sitting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, safety Tyrann Mathieu and several of his best players., including receivers Tyreek Hill and Sammy Watkins.

Kansas City QB Chad Henne made his first start in a Chiefs uniform in Sunday’s game, marking his first start in the NFL since 2014. Henne completed 23-of-32 passes for 218 yards and two passing touchdowns - good for a 111.2 passer rating.

Running back Darwin Thompson scored his first touchdown of the season on a one-yard run in the second quarter Sunday, and followed that with an eight-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter. That marked the first multi-touchdown game of Thompson's career.

Kansas City has home field advantage in the playoffs for the second time in three seasons.

KANSAS CITY, MO -Rookie quarterback Justin Herbert threw for 302 yards and accounted for four touchdowns against a team of mostly Kansas City backups, as the Los Angeles Chargers rolled to a 38-21 victory over the Chiefs on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium in the regular-season finale for both teams.Kansas City (14-2) turned their attention to the postseason, and Los Angeles will now focus on the future of head coach Anthony Lynn.The Chiefs already had wrapped up the No. 1 seed and the AFC’s lone first-round bye in the playoffs, so coach Andy Reid chose to take rest over reps by sitting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, safety Tyrann Mathieu and several of his best players., including receivers Tyreek Hill and Sammy Watkins.Kansas City QB Chad Henne made his first start in a Chiefs uniform in Sunday’s game, marking his first start in the NFL since 2014. Henne completed 23-of-32 passes for 218 yards and two passing touchdowns - good for a 111.2 passer rating.Running back Darwin Thompson scored his first touchdown of the season on a one-yard run in the second quarter Sunday, and followed that with an eight-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter. That marked the first multi-touchdown game of Thompson's career.Kansas City has home field advantage in the playoffs for the second time in three seasons.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Time to get ready for the playoffs. <a href="https://t.co/gFeIqZfQml">pic.twitter.com/gFeIqZfQml</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1345888003655430148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Herbert scores four touchdowns, Chargers beat mostly Chiefs backups

PITTSBURG, Kansas - The No. 1-ranked Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team remained perfect on the season with an 84-69 triumph over Pittsburg State at John Lance Arena Saturday. The Bearcats moved to 5-0 on the season and ran their win streak to 28 in a row behind a pair of 20-point scoring performances from&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8101">Ryan Hawkins</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8102">Trevor Hudgins</a>. Hawkins recorded his 29th career 20-point game, while Hudgins notched his 40th career 20-point scoring contest. Hawkins scored 18 of his team-high 24 points in the first half. Hawkins added a team-best eight rebounds and four steals. Hudgins&nbsp;notched 21 points and dished out six assists. Junior&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8099">Diego Bernard</a>&nbsp;continued his stat stuffing with 14 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and three blocks.&nbsp; Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8100">Wes Dreamer</a>&nbsp;reached double-figure scoring with 11 points, including a trio of three-pointers.&nbsp; Northwest returns home for a matchup against No. 5 Washburn on Thursday at Bearcat Arena. Tip is set for approximately 7:30 p.m. following the women's contest.

Pittsburg State 80 Northwest Missouri State 50.

BearcatSports.comPITTSBURG, Kansas - The No. 1-ranked Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team remained perfect on the season with an 84-69 triumph over Pittsburg State at John Lance Arena Saturday. The Bearcats moved to 5-0 on the season and ran their win streak to 28 in a row behind a pair of 20-point scoring performances from&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8101">Ryan Hawkins</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8102">Trevor Hudgins</a>. Hawkins recorded his 29th career 20-point game, while Hudgins notched his 40th career 20-point scoring contest. Hawkins scored 18 of his team-high 24 points in the first half. Hawkins added a team-best eight rebounds and four steals. Hudgins&nbsp;notched 21 points and dished out six assists. Junior&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8099">Diego Bernard</a>&nbsp;continued his stat stuffing with 14 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and three blocks.&nbsp; Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8100">Wes Dreamer</a>&nbsp;reached double-figure scoring with 11 points, including a trio of three-pointers.&nbsp; Northwest returns home for a matchup against No. 5 Washburn on Thursday at Bearcat Arena. Tip is set for approximately 7:30 p.m. following the women's contest.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">W. Hawk leads with 24 points while Trev added 21 points. This marks the 40th time he has scored 20+ points in his career. DB had 14 points, 9 assists, 7 rebounds and 3 blocks on the day. <a href="https://t.co/jHvi09NPkI">pic.twitter.com/jHvi09NPkI</a>&mdash; Bearcat Basketball (@NWBearcatMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWBearcatMBB/status/1345507328192344068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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</div>Women's final SaturdayPittsburg State 80 Northwest Missouri State 50.

Top-ranked Northwest Missouri State stays perfect, wins at Pittsburg Saturday

ST. JOSEPH - The No. 22&nbsp;Missouri Western men's basketball team turned a 10-point halftime lead into a 24-point second half lead, which led to an 84-76 win over Fort Hays State on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. The Griffons (6-1, 6-1 MIAA) used an 18-2 run to open the second half to put the game out of reach. &nbsp;Western as a team shot 48.5% (32/66) from the field. <a href="https://gogriffons.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4344">Tyrell Carroll</a>&nbsp;led the Griffons in scoring with 20 points (7-14 FG), six assists, six rebounds and three steals. &nbsp;<a href="https://gogriffons.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4347">Will Eames</a>&nbsp;added 18 points and 13 rebounds, &nbsp;<a href="https://gogriffons.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4343">Caleb Bennett</a>&nbsp;scored 15 of his 17 points in the second half and Reece Glover chipped in 14 points (5-8 FG, 3-6 three-point FG). &nbsp; The Griffons have a pair of home games against two of the top four teams in the MIAA this week. MWSU hosts Emporia State (5-1) on January 7th in the Fieldhouse&nbsp;at 7:30 p.m. After that, No. 5 Washburn (7-0) comes to St. Joseph on Saturday.

The three teams enter the week with a combined 18-2 record.&nbsp;&nbsp;

GoGriffons.comST. JOSEPH - The No. 22&nbsp;Missouri Western men's basketball team turned a 10-point halftime lead into a 24-point second half lead, which led to an 84-76 win over Fort Hays State on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. The Griffons (6-1, 6-1 MIAA) used an 18-2 run to open the second half to put the game out of reach. &nbsp;Western as a team shot 48.5% (32/66) from the field. <a href="https://gogriffons.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4344">Tyrell Carroll</a>&nbsp;led the Griffons in scoring with 20 points (7-14 FG), six assists, six rebounds and three steals. &nbsp;<a href="https://gogriffons.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4347">Will Eames</a>&nbsp;added 18 points and 13 rebounds, &nbsp;<a href="https://gogriffons.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4343">Caleb Bennett</a>&nbsp;scored 15 of his 17 points in the second half and Reece Glover chipped in 14 points (5-8 FG, 3-6 three-point FG). &nbsp; The Griffons have a pair of home games against two of the top four teams in the MIAA this week. MWSU hosts Emporia State (5-1) on January 7th in the Fieldhouse&nbsp;at 7:30 p.m. After that, No. 5 Washburn (7-0) comes to St. Joseph on Saturday. The three teams enter the week with a combined 18-2 record.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">#22 Griffon Men&#39;s Basketball wins first game of the new year! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GriffUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GriffUp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OurCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OurCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/OYr55YOLgg">pic.twitter.com/OYr55YOLgg</a>&mdash; Griffon Athletics (@gogriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/gogriffons/status/1345484822295310340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Missouri Western men open 2021 with win over Fort Hays State

KANSAS CITY (AP) -&nbsp;Justin Herbert had just turned 10 years old when Chiefs quarterback Chad Henne was drafted by the Miami Dolphins.

Herbert was still only in high school the last time Henne started an NFL game, which was September 2014.

It’ll be quite the matchup Sunday when the 22-year-old Herbert, who has surpassed all expectations in his rookie season, starts for the Chargers in Kansas City.

Drafted out of Oregon, Herbert has thrown for more than 4,000 yards this season to go with 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

Opposite him will be the 35-year-old Henne, who gets the nod at QB as the Chiefs elect to rest their starters with the No. 1 seed and a first-round by the in the NFC playoffs already secured. Henne says he’ll enjoy this opportunity.

"You go out there and play one play at a time," Henne said. "Do the best to your capability. If you get beat one play, come back the next play and beat the defender up. Just gotta be you. Don't be somebody else, and just go out and have some fun."

Henne is 18-35 in his NFL career as a starting quarterback. He’s thrown 58 touchdowns and 63 interceptions in 70 games (53 starts) with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins. He's been with Kansas City since 2018.

 The Chiefs and Chargers kick off from Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday at 3:25 p.m.

KANSAS CITY (AP) -&nbsp;Justin Herbert had just turned 10 years old when Chiefs quarterback Chad Henne was drafted by the Miami Dolphins.Think that’s wild?Herbert was still only in high school the last time Henne started an NFL game, which was September 2014.It’ll be quite the matchup Sunday when the 22-year-old Herbert, who has surpassed all expectations in his rookie season, starts for the Chargers in Kansas City.Drafted out of Oregon, Herbert has thrown for more than 4,000 yards this season to go with 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.Opposite him will be the 35-year-old Henne, who gets the nod at QB as the Chiefs elect to rest their starters with the No. 1 seed and a first-round by the in the NFC playoffs already secured. Henne says he’ll enjoy this opportunity."You go out there and play one play at a time," Henne said. "Do the best to your capability. If you get beat one play, come back the next play and beat the defender up. Just gotta be you. Don't be somebody else, and just go out and have some fun."Henne is 18-35 in his NFL career as a starting quarterback. He’s thrown 58 touchdowns and 63 interceptions in 70 games (53 starts) with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins. He's been with Kansas City since 2018. The Chiefs and Chargers kick off from Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday at 3:25 p.m.

Veteran Chad Henne to start opposite of rookie Justin Herbert Sunday

&nbsp;The No. 1-ranked Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team knocked off the rust from a 26-day layoff and posted a 74-55 victory over the Northeastern State University RiverHawks at the NSU Events Center on New Year's Eve. The Bearcats extended their overall win streak to 27 in a row thanks in large part to a 42-15 lead at the half. Northwest jumped all over NSU early and used a 29-4 run to turn a 10-8 advantage into a 39-12 lead. The Bearcats shot 53.6% from the floor in the opening half, while limiting the RiverHawks to 26.3% in the opening 20 minutes. Northwest drained eight three-pointers in the first half compared to only five made field goals by NSU. Northwest's&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8101">Ryan Hawkins</a>&nbsp;tallied his 21st career double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8102">Trevor Hudgins</a>&nbsp;chipped in with 14 points and eight assists.&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8107">Luke Waters</a>&nbsp;was the only other Bearcat to reach double figure scoring with 11 points as he drained a team-best three three-pointers.&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8099">Diego Bernard</a>&nbsp;registered eight points, seven rebounds and six assists. The Bearcats led by as many as 29 in the contest, only to see the RiverHawks trim the lead to 17 on two occasions in the second half. NSU outscored Northwest in the second half, 40-32. Northwest will travel to Pittsburg State Saturday for a 3:30 p.m. matchup with the Gorillas. The Northwest women will tip at 1:30 p.m. at John Lance Arena prior to the men's contest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

BearcatSports.com&nbsp;The No. 1-ranked Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team knocked off the rust from a 26-day layoff and posted a 74-55 victory over the Northeastern State University RiverHawks at the NSU Events Center on New Year's Eve. The Bearcats extended their overall win streak to 27 in a row thanks in large part to a 42-15 lead at the half. Northwest jumped all over NSU early and used a 29-4 run to turn a 10-8 advantage into a 39-12 lead. The Bearcats shot 53.6% from the floor in the opening half, while limiting the RiverHawks to 26.3% in the opening 20 minutes. Northwest drained eight three-pointers in the first half compared to only five made field goals by NSU. Northwest's&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8101">Ryan Hawkins</a>&nbsp;tallied his 21st career double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8102">Trevor Hudgins</a>&nbsp;chipped in with 14 points and eight assists.&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8107">Luke Waters</a>&nbsp;was the only other Bearcat to reach double figure scoring with 11 points as he drained a team-best three three-pointers.&nbsp;<a href="https://bearcatsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8099">Diego Bernard</a>&nbsp;registered eight points, seven rebounds and six assists. The Bearcats led by as many as 29 in the contest, only to see the RiverHawks trim the lead to 17 on two occasions in the second half. NSU outscored Northwest in the second half, 40-32. Northwest will travel to Pittsburg State Saturday for a 3:30 p.m. matchup with the Gorillas. The Northwest women will tip at 1:30 p.m. at John Lance Arena prior to the men's contest.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Northwest imrpoves to 4-0 with a 74-55 win over Northeastern State! 7 Bearcats score 5+ points, with Hawk leading the way with 15 points. Trev had 14 points and 8 assists, while DB finished with 8 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. <a href="https://t.co/ZnFA2OO6Mh">pic.twitter.com/ZnFA2OO6Mh</a>&mdash; Bearcat Basketball (@NWBearcatMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWBearcatMBB/status/1344744906628198406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Northwest Missouri State cruises to 4-0 with win over Northeastern State

The Bishop LeBlond holiday basketball tournament resumed on Wednesday and the championship games are set.

Semifinal: St. Michael 73 North Andrew 50. St. Michael trailed 35-32 at halftime.

Semifinal: Smithville 54 Bishop LeBlond 44.

Bishop LeBlond faces North Andrew for third place Thursday afternoon at 2:30.

Consolation: East Buchanan 45 Brookfield 40.

Semifinal: Bishop LeBlond 66 North Andrew 20. The Golden Eagles now meet Savannah in the championship. The girls’ championship is at 4 p.m. The boys’ game is at 5:30.

Consolation: Plattsburg 40 Brookfield 36.

Consolation: Kansas City East vs. Hogan Prep was canceled.

The St. Joseph Central boys came home with a fifth place finish in the Patterson Division, as they defeated Oak Park 57-40 on Wednesday morning. The Indians improve to 8-2 on the season.

Doane (Crete, NE) Holiday Tournament

The Maryville girls defeated Grand Island Northwest 58-34. Kansas State commit Serena Sundell led the Spoofhounds with 34 points. Also in Crete, the Savannah boys fell against G.I. Northwest, 57-44.&nbsp;

Milan beat Maysville in girls’ hoops 72-48. The Maysville boys also lost to Milan, 67-40.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and the St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Bishop LeBlond holiday basketball tournament resumed on Wednesday and the championship games are set.BOYSSemifinal: St. Michael 73 North Andrew 50. St. Michael trailed 35-32 at halftime.Semifinal: Smithville 54 Bishop LeBlond 44.Bishop LeBlond faces North Andrew for third place Thursday afternoon at 2:30.Consolation: East Buchanan 45 Brookfield 40.Consolation: Plattsburg 52 KC East 51.GIRLSSemifinal: Savannah 56 East Buchanan 31.Semifinal: Bishop LeBlond 66 North Andrew 20. The Golden Eagles now meet Savannah in the championship. The girls’ championship is at 4 p.m. The boys’ game is at 5:30.Consolation: Plattsburg 40 Brookfield 36.Consolation: Kansas City East vs. Hogan Prep was canceled.William Jewell Holiday ClassicThe St. Joseph Central boys came home with a fifth place finish in the Patterson Division, as they defeated Oak Park 57-40 on Wednesday morning. The Indians improve to 8-2 on the season.Doane (Crete, NE) Holiday TournamentThe Maryville girls defeated Grand Island Northwest 58-34. Kansas State commit Serena Sundell led the Spoofhounds with 34 points. Also in Crete, the Savannah boys fell against G.I. Northwest, 57-44.&nbsp;Other area scores WednesdayMilan beat Maysville in girls’ hoops 72-48. The Maysville boys also lost to Milan, 67-40.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and the St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond Holiday tournament championships set, other Wednesday scores

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, choosing to risk a bit of rust over the danger of injury with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne will start at quarterback and Matt Moore will likely be promoted from the practice squad.

That means it’s nearly certain Patrick Mahomes, who needs just 260 yards passing to reach 5,000 for the season, won't step foot on the field this week.

The Chiefs have their regular season finale against Los Angeles at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, Jan. 2. Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. central.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, choosing to risk a bit of rust over the danger of injury with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured.Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne will start at quarterback and Matt Moore will likely be promoted from the practice squad.That means it’s nearly certain Patrick Mahomes, who needs just 260 yards passing to reach 5,000 for the season, won't step foot on the field this week.The Chiefs have their regular season finale against Los Angeles at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, Jan. 2. Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. central.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Chad Henne will get the start this weekend against the Chargers. <a href="https://t.co/zpjCFMVzzc">pic.twitter.com/zpjCFMVzzc</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1344363046697902080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Chiefs to sit Mahomes, other starters Sunday against Chargers

ST. JOSEPH -&nbsp; The Missouri Western men's basketball team added a home game for this Saturday, Jan. 2, against Fort Hays State.

The game was originally scheduled for Feb. 25, but has been moved up due to openings in the schedule and to make sure it is played.

Fort Hays State's Jan. 2 game at Central Oklahoma was postponed.

This is a men's only contest, and it tips off at 2 p.m. The Griffon men also scrimmage against Rockhurst at home on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. MWSU (5-1) has been idle since Dec. 19, when they beat Missouri Southern, 88-86, in Joplin.

The NCAA unveiled their DII men’s basketball top 25 poll for this week on Tuesday. Not surprisingly, Northwest Missouri State (3-0) comes in at No. 1, receiving all 16 first place votes.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH -&nbsp; The Missouri Western men's basketball team added a home game for this Saturday, Jan. 2, against Fort Hays State.The game was originally scheduled for Feb. 25, but has been moved up due to openings in the schedule and to make sure it is played.Fort Hays State's Jan. 2 game at Central Oklahoma was postponed.This is a men's only contest, and it tips off at 2 p.m. The Griffon men also scrimmage against Rockhurst at home on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. MWSU (5-1) has been idle since Dec. 19, when they beat Missouri Southern, 88-86, in Joplin.The NCAA unveiled their DII men’s basketball top 25 poll for this week on Tuesday. Not surprisingly, Northwest Missouri State (3-0) comes in at No. 1, receiving all 16 first place votes. Missouri Western comes in at No. 22.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">The Griffon men check in at #22 this week. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OurCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OurCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/vrFUwXkNkD">https://t.co/vrFUwXkNkD</a>&mdash; Griffon Athletics (@gogriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/gogriffons/status/1344014312990498817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Missouri Western men's basketball moves Fort Hays State game to Jan. 2

COLUMBIA, Mo. –&nbsp;Less than a month after the University of Missouri's Board of Curators approved Mizzou Athletics to conduct a study for construction of a new indoor football practice facility near Memorial Stadium, an anonymous donor made a $10 million transformational contribution toward the new building.

Mizzou athletic director&nbsp;<a href="https://mutigers.com/staff.aspx?staff=485">Jim Sterk</a>&nbsp; made the announcement Tuesday. It marks the fifth, eight-figure gift in Mizzou Athletics history, and third the department has received in the last five years.

"The magnitude, impact and timing of this gift is significant as we attempt to advance the indoor football practice facility project as quickly as possible," Sterk said in a statement. "As the SEC's furthest-most Northern school, it is critical that our program have a full length indoor practice facility to utilize year-round, and this gift, coupled with the Board of Curators' action earlier this month, gives this project great momentum.

"We are grateful for the generous support that this family continues to provide to Mizzou Athletics, and believe it demonstrates a strong commitment to Mizzou Football and Coach Drinkwitz's leadership of our program. This is a project that has been a part of the athletics facilities master plan for several years, and it is something that is definitely needed."

Mizzou Athletics is currently working with one of the world's finest architects, St. Louis-based HOK, and its Kansas City, Mo.-based sports division, HOK-Sport, to develop pre-design programming and planning for a new indoor football practice facility, to replace the Devine Pavilion, which opened in 1998. While no site has been selected, the athletics department will provide the Board of Curators with a project scope, budget and fundraising plan no later than January 30, 2021, per the resolution passed on Dec. 6, 2020.

"Similar to the South End Zone Facility, this will be another project that will benefit other Mizzou teams when it is completed," Sterk said. "By building a dedicated indoor facility for the football program, we will be able to turn the Devine Pavilion over to our softball, baseball and women's soccer teams to utilize on a year-around basis."

Mizzou is the SEC's only football program without a 120-yard indoor football facility at its disposal, as the Devine Pavilion's field is only 70 yards long, which makes it difficult from both a logistical and safety standpoint for the Tigers to practice indoors, according to Sterk.

"One of the things that I quickly identified as a need, not a want, was a full-length practice facility for Mizzou Football, and on behalf of everyone in our program, we are excited, humbled and blessed by this donation to the project," said Mizzou Head Football Coach&nbsp;Eliah&nbsp;Drinkwitz. "This facility is critical to the year-round training and development of our student-athletes, and we believe it will help transform our football program for many years to come, just as the South End Zone Facility is already doing."

MUTigers.comCOLUMBIA, Mo. –&nbsp;Less than a month after the University of Missouri's Board of Curators approved Mizzou Athletics to conduct a study for construction of a new indoor football practice facility near Memorial Stadium, an anonymous donor made a $10 million transformational contribution toward the new building.Mizzou athletic director&nbsp;<a href="https://mutigers.com/staff.aspx?staff=485">Jim Sterk</a>&nbsp; made the announcement Tuesday. It marks the fifth, eight-figure gift in Mizzou Athletics history, and third the department has received in the last five years."The magnitude, impact and timing of this gift is significant as we attempt to advance the indoor football practice facility project as quickly as possible," Sterk said in a statement. "As the SEC's furthest-most Northern school, it is critical that our program have a full length indoor practice facility to utilize year-round, and this gift, coupled with the Board of Curators' action earlier this month, gives this project great momentum."We are grateful for the generous support that this family continues to provide to Mizzou Athletics, and believe it demonstrates a strong commitment to Mizzou Football and Coach Drinkwitz's leadership of our program. This is a project that has been a part of the athletics facilities master plan for several years, and it is something that is definitely needed."Mizzou Athletics is currently working with one of the world's finest architects, St. Louis-based HOK, and its Kansas City, Mo.-based sports division, HOK-Sport, to develop pre-design programming and planning for a new indoor football practice facility, to replace the Devine Pavilion, which opened in 1998. While no site has been selected, the athletics department will provide the Board of Curators with a project scope, budget and fundraising plan no later than January 30, 2021, per the resolution passed on Dec. 6, 2020."Similar to the South End Zone Facility, this will be another project that will benefit other Mizzou teams when it is completed," Sterk said. "By building a dedicated indoor facility for the football program, we will be able to turn the Devine Pavilion over to our softball, baseball and women's soccer teams to utilize on a year-around basis."Mizzou is the SEC's only football program without a 120-yard indoor football facility at its disposal, as the Devine Pavilion's field is only 70 yards long, which makes it difficult from both a logistical and safety standpoint for the Tigers to practice indoors, according to Sterk."One of the things that I quickly identified as a need, not a want, was a full-length practice facility for Mizzou Football, and on behalf of everyone in our program, we are excited, humbled and blessed by this donation to the project," said Mizzou Head Football Coach&nbsp;Eliah&nbsp;Drinkwitz. "This facility is critical to the year-round training and development of our student-athletes, and we believe it will help transform our football program for many years to come, just as the South End Zone Facility is already doing."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">NEWS | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mizzou?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mizzou</a> Receives $10M Gift for a New <a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MizzouFootball</a> Indoor Practice Facility 📰 <a href="https://t.co/ccXQtBPzZ4">https://t.co/ccXQtBPzZ4</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouTSF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MizzouTSF</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewZou?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewZou</a> 🐯🏈 <a href="https://t.co/RwWnNDBnGx">pic.twitter.com/RwWnNDBnGx</a>&mdash; Mizzou Athletics (@MizzouAthletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouAthletics/status/1344025766082695168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Mizzou receives anonymous $10 million donation for athletic facility

By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph Post

The Kansas City Royals announced Tuesday that they have signed right-handed pitcher Ervin Santana to a minor league contract.

The 38-year old right-hander pitched for the Royals in 2013, winning nine games with a 3.24 ERA in 211 innings.

Santana last pitched in the big leagues in 2019, making three starts for the Chicago White Sox with a 9.45 ERA. He was an All-Star as recently as 2017, winning 16 games for the Minnesota Twins with a 3.28 ERA.

Santana has spent parts of 15 seasons in the majors, winning 149 games with a 4.09 ERA for the Angels, Royals, Braves, Twins and White Sox.

By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals announced Tuesday that they have signed right-handed pitcher Ervin Santana to a minor league contract.The 38-year old right-hander pitched for the Royals in 2013, winning nine games with a 3.24 ERA in 211 innings.Santana last pitched in the big leagues in 2019, making three starts for the Chicago White Sox with a 9.45 ERA. He was an All-Star as recently as 2017, winning 16 games for the Minnesota Twins with a 3.28 ERA.Santana has spent parts of 15 seasons in the majors, winning 149 games with a 4.09 ERA for the Angels, Royals, Braves, Twins and White Sox.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609265940634.jpeg" alt="Ervin Santana /&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/keithallison/">Keith Allison</a> on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.flickr.com/">Flickr</a>&nbsp;/&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/en:Creative_Commons">Creative Commons</a>" />
 <figcaption>Ervin Santana /&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/keithallison/">Keith Allison</a> on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.flickr.com/">Flickr</a>&nbsp;/&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/en:Creative_Commons">Creative Commons</a></figcaption>
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Royals sign RHP Ervin Santana to minor-league contract

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas football coach Les Miles announced Tuesday that Lee Grimes has been hired as offensive line coach.

 Grimes, a decorated former player and staff member at Texas A&amp;M, spent the 2020 season at UNC Charlotte, and brings more than eight years of collegiate coaching experience to Lawrence.

“Lee is an impressive coach who will bring a lot of passion and energy to the offensive line position room,” Miles said in a statement. “He was a great player at Brownwood High School in Texas and one that I recruited heavily when I was head coach at Oklahoma State. Lee comes highly recommended as a coach, and has worked with some great offensive coaches including Jimbo Fisher, Josh Henson and Jim Turner. Lee is a relationship builder, and is the type of leader we want in our program. I am eager to get to work with him.”

Grimes, who played in the NFL in 2010, arrives at Kansas after one season with the Charlotte 49ers, serving as the offensive line coach.

Prior to his one season at Charlotte, Grimes spent three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, both as a senior offensive analyst and graduate assistant working with the offensive line.

Grimes came to Texas A&amp;M from Minnesota, where he served as a graduate assistant for the 2016 season.

Prior to his time at Minnesota, Grimes was the run game coordinator and offensive line coach at East Texas Baptist for three seasons.

Grimes got into coaching in 2010 at University of Arkansas at Monticello as the assistant offensive line coach. He also spent time at Southeastern Oklahoma State and Lubbock Estacado High School, prior to his stint at East Texas Baptist.

As a player at Texas A&amp;M, Grimes was a teammate of current Kansas safeties coach Jordan Peterson. Grimes was a two-year starter for the Aggies and a four-year letter winner. He was an All-Big 12 Second-Team selection in 2009 and was named to the Texas A&amp;M All-Decade team for 2000-2010. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&amp;M in 2009.

Grimes spent part of the 2010 season with both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the San Diego Chargers following his playing career in College Station.

Grimes and his wife, Kristen, have one son, Deacon.

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas football coach Les Miles announced Tuesday that Lee Grimes has been hired as offensive line coach. Grimes, a decorated former player and staff member at Texas A&amp;M, spent the 2020 season at UNC Charlotte, and brings more than eight years of collegiate coaching experience to Lawrence.“Lee is an impressive coach who will bring a lot of passion and energy to the offensive line position room,” Miles said in a statement. “He was a great player at Brownwood High School in Texas and one that I recruited heavily when I was head coach at Oklahoma State. Lee comes highly recommended as a coach, and has worked with some great offensive coaches including Jimbo Fisher, Josh Henson and Jim Turner. Lee is a relationship builder, and is the type of leader we want in our program. I am eager to get to work with him.”Grimes, who played in the NFL in 2010, arrives at Kansas after one season with the Charlotte 49ers, serving as the offensive line coach.Prior to his one season at Charlotte, Grimes spent three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, both as a senior offensive analyst and graduate assistant working with the offensive line.Grimes came to Texas A&amp;M from Minnesota, where he served as a graduate assistant for the 2016 season.Prior to his time at Minnesota, Grimes was the run game coordinator and offensive line coach at East Texas Baptist for three seasons.Grimes got into coaching in 2010 at University of Arkansas at Monticello as the assistant offensive line coach. He also spent time at Southeastern Oklahoma State and Lubbock Estacado High School, prior to his stint at East Texas Baptist.As a player at Texas A&amp;M, Grimes was a teammate of current Kansas safeties coach Jordan Peterson. Grimes was a two-year starter for the Aggies and a four-year letter winner. He was an All-Big 12 Second-Team selection in 2009 and was named to the Texas A&amp;M All-Decade team for 2000-2010. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&amp;M in 2009.Grimes spent part of the 2010 season with both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the San Diego Chargers following his playing career in College Station.Grimes and his wife, Kristen, have one son, Deacon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609261979175.jpeg" alt="Lee Grimes. Courtesy KUAthletics.com." />
 <figcaption>Lee Grimes. Courtesy KUAthletics.com.</figcaption>
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Lee Grimes hired as KU offensive line coach

The Bishop LeBlond holiday basketball tournament got underway for both the boys and girls' teams in St. Joseph on Monday.

Here's the full scoreboard from Monday's action:

Due to weather, Tuesday's holiday tournament action has been moved to Wednesday on the same bracket schedule. That was first reported by Joe Andrews of News-Press NOW.

Other area basketball scores Monday

In the William Jewell Holiday Classic in Liberty, the St. Joseph Central boys defeated Ruskin 65-61 Monday in the Consolation Semifinal of the Patterson Division. Central now faces Oak Park in the 5th place game.

In the Holley Division at William Jewell, North Kansas City topped Lee's Summit North in boys' action 56-43. NKC will now face Liberty in the semifinals on Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Elsewhere Monday, West Nodaway topped North Harrison in boys' basketball 84-62.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Bishop LeBlond holiday basketball tournament got underway for both the boys and girls' teams in St. Joseph on Monday.Here's the full scoreboard from Monday's action:GIRLSEast Buchanan 65 Hogan Prep 5North Andrew 42 Brookfield 30Savannah 73 Kansas City East 0Bishop LeBlond 56 Plattsburg 37BOYSSt. Michael 86 East Buchanan 45North Andrew 62 Brookfield 41Smithville 61 Kansas City East 58Bishop LeBlond 54 Plattsburg 52Due to weather, Tuesday's holiday tournament action has been moved to Wednesday on the same bracket schedule. That was first reported by Joe Andrews of News-Press NOW.Here's the updated Wednesday schedule:<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Wednesday&#39;s Schedule at Bishop LeBlond <a href="https://t.co/mSvpIddpHI">pic.twitter.com/mSvpIddpHI</a>&mdash; GRC.com (@GrandRiverConf) <a href="https://twitter.com/GrandRiverConf/status/1343767412785762309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>Updated bracket:<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Bishop LeBlond Tournament Update: Due to tomorrow’s forecast we are postponing games until Wednesday &amp; Thursday. See the below bracket with updated dates &amp; times and we appreciate the flexibility from each school. <a href="https://twitter.com/LeBlondEagles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeBlondEagles</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SJNPSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJNPSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisRroush?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chrisRroush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KQ2SPORTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KQ2SPORTS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NPNowZenner?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NPNowZenner</a> <a href="https://t.co/5cJOLQWTWx">pic.twitter.com/5cJOLQWTWx</a>&mdash; Michael Evans (@MEvans1982) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEvans1982/status/1343768232335974404?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
</div>Other area basketball scores MondayIn the William Jewell Holiday Classic in Liberty, the St. Joseph Central boys defeated Ruskin 65-61 Monday in the Consolation Semifinal of the Patterson Division. Central now faces Oak Park in the 5th place game.In the Holley Division at William Jewell, North Kansas City topped Lee's Summit North in boys' action 56-43. NKC will now face Liberty in the semifinals on Tuesday at 6 p.m.Elsewhere Monday, West Nodaway topped North Harrison in boys' basketball 84-62.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and the St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Bishop LeBlond Holiday Tournament - Monday scores, Tuesday action postponed

Mizzou Football junior linebacker <a href="https://mutigers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7922">Nick Bolton</a> was named a second-team All-American by the Associated Press Monday.

Bolton is Mizzou's first AP All-American since Kentrell Brothers in 2015. Bolton was also named to the All-SEC first team by the league's coaches and by the AP last week.

Bolton, a Butkus Award finalist, led the SEC with 67 solo tackles, while his 95 total tackles rank fifth in the league. Bolton also had 2.0 sacks, five pass break-ups and a fumble recovery this season.

Bolton, who had opted out of the <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/0ab4114b-e040-466d-8c7d-84ca766503ab">now canceled Music City Bowl</a> to prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft, ends his collegiate career with 224 total tackles, 16.0 TFL and 4.0 sacks.

Mizzou Football junior linebacker <a href="https://mutigers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7922">Nick Bolton</a> was named a second-team All-American by the Associated Press Monday. Bolton is Mizzou's first AP All-American since Kentrell Brothers in 2015. Bolton was also named to the All-SEC first team by the league's coaches and by the AP last week.Bolton, a Butkus Award finalist, led the SEC with 67 solo tackles, while his 95 total tackles rank fifth in the league. Bolton also had 2.0 sacks, five pass break-ups and a fumble recovery this season.Bolton, who had opted out of the <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/0ab4114b-e040-466d-8c7d-84ca766503ab">now canceled Music City Bowl</a> to prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft, ends his collegiate career with 224 total tackles, 16.0 TFL and 4.0 sacks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609192209634.jpeg" alt="Nick Bolton. Courtesy&nbsp; MUTigers.com." />
 <figcaption>Nick Bolton. Courtesy&nbsp; MUTigers.com.</figcaption>
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Mizzou linebacker Nick Bolton named second-team All-American

Kansas sophomore Christian Braun was named the men’s basketball Big 12 Player of the Week on Monday. The award is selected by a media panel that covers the Big 12.

This is the first Big 12 weekly honor for Kansas this season.

In No. 3 Kansas’ 79-65 win against No. 7 West Virginia on Dec. 22, Braun scored 22 points, including 6-of-12 from 3-point range. The Burlington, Kansas, guard poured in 14 of his 22 points in the second half, including four treys. It was Braun’s second-most points scored this season, and he also posted a career-high seven assists with four rebounds against the Mountaineers.

Braun averages 11.9 points and 5.9 rebounds per game this season. His 22 3-pointers are second most on the team behind junior Ochai Agbaji’s 24 treys. Braun’s 2.4 3-pointers made per game rank fifth in the Big 12 and his 5.9 rebounds per game average are 15th. He is also 11th in the conference in steals at 1.3 per contest.

No. 3 Kansas (8-1, 2-0 Big 12) next plays host to No. 8 Texas (7-1, 1-0) on Saturday, Jan. 2, at Allen Fieldhouse at 11 a.m. central. The game will be televised on ESPN2.

KUAthletics.comKansas sophomore Christian Braun was named the men’s basketball Big 12 Player of the Week on Monday. The award is selected by a media panel that covers the Big 12.This is the first Big 12 weekly honor for Kansas this season.In No. 3 Kansas’ 79-65 win against No. 7 West Virginia on Dec. 22, Braun scored 22 points, including 6-of-12 from 3-point range. The Burlington, Kansas, guard poured in 14 of his 22 points in the second half, including four treys. It was Braun’s second-most points scored this season, and he also posted a career-high seven assists with four rebounds against the Mountaineers.Braun averages 11.9 points and 5.9 rebounds per game this season. His 22 3-pointers are second most on the team behind junior Ochai Agbaji’s 24 treys. Braun’s 2.4 3-pointers made per game rank fifth in the Big 12 and his 5.9 rebounds per game average are 15th. He is also 11th in the conference in steals at 1.3 per contest.No. 3 Kansas (8-1, 2-0 Big 12) next plays host to No. 8 Texas (7-1, 1-0) on Saturday, Jan. 2, at Allen Fieldhouse at 11 a.m. central. The game will be televised on ESPN2.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609191387554.jpeg" alt="Christian Braun." />
 <figcaption>Christian Braun.</figcaption>
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